In our multiethnic/multicultural homes, daycares and classrooms, children have friends whose families practice many spiritual traditions. As an introduction to the cycle of fables in Buddhist literature known as the Jatakas, or birth stories, this book is wonderful.

Each of the six retellings gathered in this volume features animal characters and an incarnation of the Buddha from an earlier life, usually as an animal himself. From the tale of the clever monkey outwitting a crocodile to that of a bird and turtle rescuing a friend, these subtle, amusing parables embody some of the central tenets of Buddha’s philosophy. Joined with stunning linocut illustrations, they form a book that is notable for both its beauty and its wisdom.

Definitely recommended for the simplicity of the message and as an entrée for children to Buddhism as a spiritual tradition.

From Publishers Weekly-
“A monkey that takes refuge in the ruins of Buddha's temple during a monsoon sets the stage for these finely honed retellings of six Jatakas, or birth stories. As the monkey's eyes adjust to the light, he discovers he is in the company of a lion, turtle, jackal and dove, and a statue of "the Enlightened One" begins to speak. In each tale, Buddha assumes a different shape to impart his message of peace, attentiveness, tolerance and respect. Lee effortlessly and subtly weaves Buddhist practices and principles into her evenly paced tales.

Each story is a study in brevity and restraint yet, like Buddha, conveys enormous empathy…Fans of Aesop's fables and the Just So Stories will likely find these characters equally as compelling, while others will discover a gentle and graceful introduction to Buddhism here.”